Lotus says the high-power and low-drag characteristics of its car have left it optimistic of a strong showing at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Although the Enstone-based team has not been a match for the top Mercedes teams so far this campaign, the characteristics of Spa-Francorchamps should better play to the E23's strengths.

When asked on Friday if there was a feeling of optimism about the potential for the Belgian GP, Lotus technical director Nick Chester said: “I think so.

“It’s a strong power track and we have a strong power unit. We have fairly low drag on the E23 so I believe we should be in a reasonable position.”

Grosjean intrigued

Although Lotus has been left frustrated by race incidents in recent events, there has been signs of great potential from the car.

Romain Grosjean said he would be fascinated to see how the E23 matched up against rivals on a track that should be one of its better ones.

“You need good grunt from the engine and a well set-up and forgiving car,” he explained.

“We can definitely deliver on both those counts so it’s going to be interesting to see how we fare against our rivals. You also need an element of luck sometimes as the weather in the Ardennes can present a challenge."

He added: “I think the circuit could well play to some of the strengths we have in the car and I’m certainly ready for more points.

"Me and the team will be doing everything we can to go well and get the strongest result possible, after all that’s what we’re here to do.”